The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales have designated 2020 as 'The God Who Speaks': A Year of the Word to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Verbum Domini - Pope Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Exhortation on ‘The Word of the Lord’, and the 1600th anniversary of death of St Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin.

Therefore, 2020 will be a year of celebrating, living and sharing God's word, through a range of events, activities and resources, available across the dioceses of England and Wales.

We are invited to listen afresh to the word of God as did Our Blessed Lady at the Annunication, to encounter anew the presence of that word, and to proclaim it afresh in the Church and the World.

‘Scripture is at the centre of everything the Church does. The Word of God shapes our prayer and worship. The Bible shows us how to understand the world, how we are called to live and relate to each other. ’

In partnership with the Bible Society, ‘The God Who Speaks: The Year of the Word’ focuses on celebrating, living and sharing God’s word throughout the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

In keeping with the Church’s three year cycle there will also be a specific focus on St. Matthew’s Gospel.

Living God, You walk alongside us and speak to us throughout the scriptures. You Son, Jesus Christ, listens to our hopes and fears and shows us how to live for one another.

Send us the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds so that we may be your witnesses throughout the world.